Imagine living a longer, healthier life by tweaking just a few everyday routines—sounds too good to be true? Well, buckle up, because a top heart surgeon with decades of hands-on experience is about to spill the beans on five simple habits that could be your ticket to greater longevity. But here's where it gets intriguing: are these tips backed by rock-solid science, or is there room for debate on what's really essential? Let's dive in and find out.
Updated on: Nov 05, 2025 08:17 am IST
A seasoned cardiothoracic surgeon named Dr. Jeremy London, who's been in the field for more than 25 years, recently took to social media on November 4 to spotlight the vital role of heart health. In his Instagram video, cleverly titled 'Asking a Heart Surgeon what daily habits are proven to increase longevity,' he breaks down five practical routines that science suggests can help you live longer. And trust me, this isn't just casual advice—it's coming from someone who's operated on countless hearts and knows firsthand how crucial your ticker is.
Your heart, after all, is the powerhouse of your body. It tirelessly circulates blood, ensuring every organ and tissue gets the oxygen and nutrients they need to function. Neglecting it can shorten your lifespan, but nurturing it through smart daily choices? That might just add years to your life. Think of it like maintaining a car engine: regular care prevents breakdowns and keeps things running smoothly.
Also Read | Salman Khan shows off ripped physique at 59: Secret to his fitness is exercising 6 times, eating 'ghar ka khana'
Dr. Jeremy, a board-certified cardiothoracic surgeon, emphasizes that longevity boils down to these five habits: physical activity, nutrition, downtime, social connections, and even something as relaxing as heat therapy. He draws on his extensive clinical background to explain why each one matters, and we'll unpack them here with a bit more detail to make it easier for everyone to grasp.
Daily habits that boost longevity
In his engaging video, Dr. Jeremy illuminates routines backed by research that can extend your life. Here are the five habits he shared, explained step by step for clarity:
Exercise
Leading the pack as the top habit for enhancing lifespan, according to Dr. Jeremy, is regular physical activity. He points out that the real 'secret sauce' lies in blending strength training—think lifting weights or bodyweight exercises to build muscle—with aerobic activities like brisk walking, running, or cycling to get your heart pumping. For beginners, this could mean starting small: a 20-minute walk daily or a few sets of squats at home. The combination not only strengthens your cardiovascular system but also improves overall stamina, reducing risks like heart disease. But here's where it gets controversial—some experts argue that high-intensity workouts might strain the heart for certain people, so always consult a doc before ramping up. What's your take on balancing intensity?Diet
Next up, Dr. Jeremy stresses the importance of mindful eating as a cornerstone for longevity. He advises focusing on nutrient-dense foods: ample protein for muscle repair (like lean meats or legumes), fiber from veggies and whole grains to aid digestion, complex carbs for sustained energy, and healthy fats from sources like avocados or nuts. He puts it eloquently: 'This is the fuel you provide to every single cell in your body.' To clarify for newcomers, imagine your diet as a blueprint for cellular health—skip the processed junk and opt for whole foods to lower inflammation and support heart function. Examples include swapping sugary snacks for a handful of almonds or adding more leafy greens to meals. And this is the part most people miss: even with a 'healthy' diet, portion control matters to avoid overeating.Rest and recovery
Another key habit Dr. Jeremy highlights is prioritizing rest and recovery, where he says 'the magic truly happens.' Quality sleep tops the list—aim for 7-9 hours nightly to allow your body to repair and recharge—but he also recommends carving out daily 'me-time' to unwind, perhaps through meditation or a hobby. For those new to this, think of it as giving your internal systems a break from stress; chronic fatigue can weaken your heart over time. A simple example: instead of scrolling through your phone before bed, try reading a book to promote better sleep hygiene. But here's where it gets intriguing—some wellness gurus debate if 'rest' includes total unplugging from screens, sparking debates on modern habits.Relationships
Rounding out the fourth spot, Dr. Jeremy champions cultivating meaningful relationships for a longer life. He urges surrounding yourself with supportive people who bring joy and purpose, quoting Arthur Brooks: 'Real friends, not deal friends.' This means quality over quantity—deep connections that uplift you, whether it's family, close pals, or community groups. For beginners, start by scheduling regular catch-ups or joining a club; studies show strong social ties can reduce stress and even lower heart attack risks. Yet, and this is controversial, not everyone agrees on what 'meaningful' entails—could toxic relationships actually shorten life? It's a thought-provoking angle worth pondering.Sauna and heat therapy
Finally, Dr. Jeremy recommends incorporating sauna sessions or heat therapy for their longevity perks. He advises following a proper protocol, noting benefits like lowered cardiovascular risks, reduced all-cause mortality, and even protection against Alzheimer's and dementia. For those unfamiliar, think of a sauna as a controlled heat exposure that boosts circulation and detoxes the body—start with 10-15 minute sessions a few times a week. But here's the twist: while some hail it as a game-changer, critics question if it's accessible or effective for everyone, especially in hotter climates. Is heat therapy a must-have, or just a nice-to-have? The debate rages on.
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
This report is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.
Catch every big hit, every wicket with Crick-it, a one stop destination for Live Scores, Match Stats, Quizzes, Polls & much more. Explore now!
Catch your daily dose of Fashion, Taylor Swift, Health, Festivals, Travel, Relationship, Recipe and all the other Latest Lifestyle News on Hindustan Times Website and APPs.
Catch every big hit, every wicket with Crick-it, a one stop destination for Live Scores, Match Stats, Quizzes, Polls & much more. Explore now!
Catch your daily dose of Fashion, Taylor Swift, Health, Festivals, Travel, Relationship, Recipe and all the other Latest Lifestyle News on Hindustan Times Website and APPs.
See Less
SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
What do you think—do these habits resonate with you, or do you see flaws in Dr. Jeremy's approach? Is sauna therapy overhyped, or is building relationships the real key to longevity? Drop your thoughts in the comments below and let's spark a conversation!
